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Discharge – what’s normal and what’s not?

Is it normal to have discharge? Absolutely. Vaginal discharge is nothing to panic about. In fact, it’s a good thing.

White discharge is the body’s way of keeping everything clean. It’s produced naturally from the neck of the womb, known as the cervix, and the amount varies throughout your menstrual cycle. Most women get a lot of discharge just before a period.

Not sure if your discharge is normal? As long as it’s clear, white or pale yellow in colour, and has minimal odour, there’s no need for concern. If you’re worried about your underwear staying dry, or just hate that damp feeling, you could use a panty liner. But if the discharge begins to smell a lot more than usual, or the colour changes to a darker yellow or green, or if there’s an unusually large amount, see your doctor. You could have an infection.

Gradually, you’ll become aware of what’s normal for you as your discharge varies naturally throughout your cycle. This will help you recognise abnormal discharge if it occurs, and deal with it. And if you’re worried about it, talk to your doctor or school nurse.

The vagina is self-cleaning, so there’s no need to wash inside it (referred to as ‘douching’). In fact, it’s a really bad idea. Douching can upset the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina and lead to unpleasant conditions like thrush or bacterial vaginosis. Using perfumed soaps, bubble baths and shower gels can also cause abnormal vaginal discharge. So never clean your vagina with anything strongly perfumed. Use a mild soap and warm water to stay clean and free of infection.

Essity is a leading global hygiene and health company that develops, produces and sells Personal Care (Baby Care, Feminine Care, Incontinence Products and Medical Solutions), Consumer Tissue and Professional Hygiene products and solutions. Our vision is; Dedicated to improving well-being through leading hygiene and health solutions. Sales are conducted in approximately 150 countries under many strong brands, including the leading global brands TENA and Tork, and other brands, such as Leukoplast, Libero, Libresse, Lotus, Nosotras, Saba, Tempo, Vinda and Zewa. Essity has about 48,000 employees and net sales in 2016 amounted to approximately SEK 101bn (EUR 10.7bn). The business operations are based on a sustainable business model with focus on value creation for people and nature. The company has its headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, and is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. Essity used to be part of the SCA Group. More information at www.essity.com.